Gold Star Alum Series: Leslie Mitchel Bond, M.Ed. ’88

The Journey from Erikson to Leadership

Leslie’s story is a testament to the Erikson spirit—bold, compassionate, and deeply rooted in community commitment. Guided by a mentor’s wisdom, she set aside her plan for law school and enrolled at Erikson Institute, marking the beginning of her path. It was here, in an environment rich with curiosity and purpose, that she encountered her first defining moment. “I walked in feeling proud and confident, fresh out of college,” Leslie recalled with a warm laugh. But that confidence was met with an unexpected question. “Barbara Bowman looked at me and said, ‘What do you want to do when you grow up?’” The simplicity of it was disarming. Leslie admitted, “I sort of sank down in my chair,” realizing she was only at the beginning of understanding the depth of her calling. It was a wake-up call that marked the start of a journey of resilience, humility, and dedication to creating lasting change in the lives of children and families.

At Erikson, Leslie found an education that combined child development with a deep focus on culture and community. “Erikson offered a comprehensive experience in all aspects of child development, especially the focus on culture and community,” she said. This holistic perspective became the bedrock of her future work, instilling in her a blend of confidence and empathy that would shape her career and guide her vision for years to come.

A Vision Born from Insight

The idea for the One Lawndale Children’s Discovery Center came to Leslie during a community meeting on the west side of Chicago, where she recognized an overlooked need. Although there were investments in youth programs and violence prevention, the youngest children and their families still lacked a dedicated space for learning and play. Drawing on her Erikson-honed understanding of early development, Leslie felt compelled to bridge that gap. “Every child deserves the opportunity to play,” she said, her voice full of conviction. This belief became the heartbeat of her mission, infusing her work with purpose and passion.

Leslie’s strategy embodies a vision that transcends conventional play areas. By recognizing the significant role that non-medical settings play in promoting holistic well-being, she has forged valuable partnerships with Sinai, local Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and a dedicated team at Lurie, which includes Erikson alumna Lisa Mulvaney. This collaborative initiative has been further strengthened by the active participation of other Erikson faculty, alumni, and Board members, showcasing the Erikson community’s unwavering dedication to meaningful projects. These partnerships are designed to address key social determinants of health, positioning the Discovery Center as more than just a play space—it is a nurturing environment that supports both physical and mental wellness.

Navigating the Path of Challenges

Realizing this vision has been anything but straightforward. Leslie’s journey has been marked by navigating complex city regulations, securing sustainable funding, and facing moments that tested her resolve. But the lessons learned at Erikson stayed with her. “Plan with a sense of urgency and manage with a sense of reality,” she shared, summing up her balanced approach. This ongoing process requires patience, adaptability, and a commitment that few possess. The long timeline has allowed her to connect more deeply with the community, turning obstacles into opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Leslie’s deep understanding of the unique nature of children’s museums underscores her commitment to creating spaces that resonate with their communities. “Children’s museums are place-based,” she noted, emphasizing how each region reflects its own character—whether through tractors and farm equipment in rural areas or local cultural elements in urban centers. This perspective shapes her vision for the Discovery Center, ensuring it authentically represents the community it serves and meets its specific needs.

The Power of Genuine Community Engagement

For Leslie, the Discovery Center is more than just a project; it’s a promise to the community. “To show that you’re genuinely listening, you need to show up—be present at their events and engage with them,” Leslie’s voice softened with sincerity as she reflected. By attending local gatherings and engaging with community leaders, parents, and youth, she built trust and fostered a sense of shared ownership.

One of Leslie’s most impactful strategies was establishing a Youth Advisory Council. “Too often, youth voices are overlooked, even though they’re the population you’re serving,” Leslie noted. This council not only empowered young people to share their ideas and become active participants in shaping the center but also provided them with opportunities to learn about community issues, develop leadership skills, and be compensated for their contributions. Their involvement goes beyond shaping the center; it helps create future job opportunities that will be available to youth when the center opens. The result has been a space that truly reflects the community’s needs and aspirations, even as it continues to grow and develop.

Lessons for Future Leaders

If you’re a current Erikson student or alum, Leslie’s story holds a powerful lesson: think big, break the mold, and keep going when things get tough. “Don’t limit yourself,” she urged, with conviction born from experience. Tap into Erikson’s core strength—social-emotional learning—and make change that lasts beyond a funding cycle.

Leadership isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about listening, empowering, and creating a legacy where everyone feels valued. “It’s not just about the end goal—it’s about the journey and who you bring along with you,” Leslie spoke with a thoughtful pause, her words resonating with quiet determination. In a world of quick fixes, be the one who invests in lasting change.

The Erikson Legacy: A Lasting Impact

“It’s not just about what we bring to the community but ensuring that the community sees itself in everything we do,” she said. That’s Leslie: a leader who understands that real change happens when people see themselves reflected in it.

Her journey is proof that Erikson isn’t just an institute—it’s a launchpad for dreamers, doers, and believers. The message is simple and powerful: play, learning, and belonging are rights, not privileges. And through leaders like Leslie, Erikson’s legacy grows, one innovative, heartfelt project at a time.